BASW statement on Ukraine

BASW urges the UK Government to not only work with other world leaders to bring the war to an end, but also to ensure that the people of Ukraine have our support and assistance through humanitarian relief. 

On 24 February 2022, BASW members will have woken up to the terrible situation unfolding in Ukraine. The Government of Russia, under President Putin, has launched military action on Ukraine. This follows a major build-up of Russian military forces on the border with Ukraine. During this build -up a range of governments made strenuous efforts to mediate and offer diplomatic solutions to avert military action by Russia.

Ukraine is a sovereign nation, with a democratically elected Government.

While there is not yet a full picture of the situation on the ground given the size and scale of military action by the Russian Government it is likely that civilian casualties in Ukraine will be high. Independent estimates put the possible number of refugees fleeing the conflict zone at between 8 and 10 million.

War has a devasting impact on innocent people who pay the price of aggression with their lives, their homes, and their safety.

This military conflict directly impacts the people of Ukraine, but it will have wider repercussions. People may be displaced and will need to seek refuge in other countries as a result. Social workers across Europe will also play a key part of supporting people in rebuilding their lives.

BASW urges the UK Government to not only work with other world leaders to bring the war to an end, but also to ensure that the people of Ukraine have our support and assistance through humanitarian relief. 

We also ask for vital support for those working in social work, health and welfare services in Ukraine, many of whom will undoubtedly strive to keep humanitarian services available and support people least able to protect themselves during the conflict and in its aftermath.

Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, including social work colleagues in Ukraine, those in health and welfare services, and all those who have loved ones in Ukraine who will be understandably deeply worried.

Supporting colleagues and individuals 

BASW is reaching out to social work associations of Ukraine, Russia, and neighbouring countries who are affected – many of whom will be  actively supporting refugees and supporting in other ways too.

We stand in solidarity with Ukraine and our European neighbours and support the people of Russia and Belarus who are bravely speaking out against the actions of the Russian government.

We also encourage members to be aware of and where possible to provide support to those with links to Ukraine and Russia - such as colleagues, individuals and families who you may already be working with, and people in our own communities. 

This statement was drafted on information available as at 24 Feb 16.08 GMT.